North Point Lighthouse
North Point Lighthouse
4.5
About
North Point Lighthouse & Museum is beautiful, memorable & historic. Our museum tells the history of lighthouses in Milwaukee as well as the maritime history of the area - extremely interesting with original artifacts & great stories. Learn about Georgia Stebbins was our longest-term keeper - quite unusual for a woman in the late 1800's & early 1900's. It's estimated she climbed the tower 63,800 times! She was amazing. Our lighthouse tower is on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan and Milwaukee. It's comprised from three sections, each a component of three different lighthouses. It's truly a historic treasure. See our Web site for more information and our open hours - there is an admission fee. Docents can provide a tour of our museum, you may climb to the top of the tower for a fabulous view! Visit our Gift Shop and enjoy our beautiful grounds, set in a park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (who designed Central Park in New York City).
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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4.5
228 reviews
Excellent
118
Very good
87
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21
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Colin Archibald
Kingston, TN4,467 contributions
Jan 2020
This beautiful lighthouse is unique for lighthouses along this coastline, made of steel instead of brick like most of the others. The museum is very informative and has lots of history about the light station. One of the things I found very interesting was that the original light was much shorter, they built a new base section and lifter the original light on top. That is why there is a seam in the middle. The upper section is the original light. If you sign a waiver, you can climb to the top of the lighthouse for some beautiful views.
Written January 22, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christina B
Louisiana2,613 contributions
Jul 2022 • Couples
Although the lighthouse was closer we still enjoyed walking around it and enjoyed the grounds. It’s a beautiful lighthouse. Would love to have walked up the lighthouse and checked out their museum. I did look in the back porch window as another lady mentioned it. They have lovely flowers as well.
Written July 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sue G
We hope that you can come back when the museum, tower and gift shop are open (Saturday and Sunday afternoons 1-4 p.m.)! Thank you for the kind words.
Written January 20, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kkoleary
Scottsdale, AZ840 contributions
Jun 2021 • Couples
We could not visit when open so only able to see lighthouse from outside. They put up a great mirror in front that you can take a selfie with lighthouse in background (wish others would do this). Trees have grown so there is no longer view of lake but nice path to walk.
Written June 5, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
keith1121
Memphis, TN170 contributions
Jun 2021
I search for any nearby lighthouses when we are traveling and stop by if they are within reasonable distance of our route. This one was about 30 minutes out of our way, and well worth it!! I got some great pics from outside and looking off onto the water from below. It was closed while we were there, so we didn't get to go inside. The lighthouse itself along with all its surroundings and grounds were very well kept!! From the street, it has a park like setting where local neighbors were our walking or riding their bikes. I'm glad we stopped by! Maybe we can make it back sometime and check out the inside.
Written July 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mario C
Kenosha, WI369 contributions
Jan 2020 • Friends
The light house is beautiful and well maintained. The cliff veiw of lake Michigan is wonderful . You also in one of the most beautiful residential area in North America. So come see rhe light house and take nice walk about.
Written January 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Isn't this a great place to explore? So many great photo ops and historically significant as well. Thanks for visiting us!!!
Written January 22, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ddnev
Richmond, California10 contributions
This recently restored lighthouse is a beautiful attraction. The tour provides a great overview of the lighthouse's and Milwaukee's history. Climbing the steep spiral staircase and the final iron ladder is an exciting way to ascend to a vantage point with a view 20 miles out into Lake Michigan, and a reminder of how much the lighthouse keepers of the past had to endure to keep the beacon going.
Written October 2, 2010
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Piper417
Montgomery, IL1,148 contributions
Sep 2011 • Friends
Nice Lighthouse, easy to find, if you want to see the inside and go up the tower it is only open on weekends. The stairs in the tower are easy to climb with landings to catch your breath. Staff is very knowledgeable about the history of the lighthouse. Nice walking trails around the area.
Written September 26, 2011
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SusieMilwaukee
Shorewood, WI136 contributions
Oct 2012 • Couples
Tucked away in Lake Park, many are not aware of this beautiful lighthouse and museum. Visit their Web site to see when the lighthouse and keepers quarters are open. You can take the stairs to the top! If you're afraid of heights, beware that the last few steps to the top are via a metal open-rung ladder! But there's a great view from the top! Lots of interesting history (including a female keeper and moving of the lighthouse as the bluff eroded and trees grew tall) and a Frensel lens on display. Volunteers staff and keep the lighthouse in great shape. Lake Park is worth exploring, too! It was designed by Patrick Law Olmstead who designed Central Park in NY City. Also visit Web site for special event calendar. Great photo op - beautiful.
Written January 26, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tom W
Katy, TX2,944 contributions
Jul 2019 • Family
North Point Lighthouse is right off of Lake Michigan. You can drive up a hill to see it. It is a great photo opportunity.
I especially enjoyed the surrounding area. We visited Lake Michigan. It's fun to toss a few rocks into the lake and feel the cold lake waters.
The houses around the North Point Lighthouse are incredible. I liked the Bavarian style mansions. The drive reminded me of Summit Avenue in St. Paul, MN.
You can do a little hiking and walking around the Lighthouse. The weather is nice during the summer.
The North Point Lighthouse is a worthwhile stop in Milwaukee
I especially enjoyed the surrounding area. We visited Lake Michigan. It's fun to toss a few rocks into the lake and feel the cold lake waters.
The houses around the North Point Lighthouse are incredible. I liked the Bavarian style mansions. The drive reminded me of Summit Avenue in St. Paul, MN.
You can do a little hiking and walking around the Lighthouse. The weather is nice during the summer.
The North Point Lighthouse is a worthwhile stop in Milwaukee
Written July 25, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for visiting us! Wahl Avenue is similar to Summit Avenue in St. Paul, MN! Many of Milwaukee's industrialists build those beautiful early Milwaukee mansions. We'll be opening a restored hiking path in the ravine to the south of the lighthouse in a couple of weeks.
Written August 7, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
gardenscout
Milwaukee, WI28 contributions
Jul 2018 • Family
Beautiful location, interesting history. The light house can be toured in an hour. Further north in Lake Park are hiking trails, an 18 hole public par 3 golf course, and a large playground. Lunch at Lake Park Bistro offers lovely views and delicious French Fare. For casual nearby dining, walk 0.4 miles to Downer Avenue for Cafe Hollander, Belair Cantina, Collectivo Coffee, and Pizza Man. Walking south 1 mile along the Lake Drive bluff offers spectacular views of the lake, lovely old homes, and the North Point Water Tower, and brings you to the Villa Terrace Museum. The museum has an interesting Blacksmith display, gardens, and art. 3 Blocks west down Ivanhoe Place is Sip and Purr cat cafe and the outdoor art exhibit, Black Cat Alley plus more restaurants on North Avenue.
Written July 17, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chris_626
West Palm Beach, FL155 contributions
What is the history? Also are you seeing the lake from a supper far distance at the top, or is it sitting on the lake? Thanks
Debbie R
Greendale, WI37 contributions
They have a guided tour one weekend a month (check the schedule) where they provide information and allow you to climb to the top of the lighthouse.The view is spectacular! It's a tranquil area. If the water is low you can walk along the water line. It's worth the stop if you're in the area.
STLDood
Arnold, MO441 contributions
I'm trying to make plans for our trip late summer. I realize you're not open at this time, but could you tell me what the normal weekday hours are to help with planning? Thanks!
SusieMilwaukee
Shorewood, WI136 contributions
Open 1-4 pm on Saturdays and Sundays year round. Please check the Web site for additional summer hours.
Pat P
Barrington, IL2 contributions
Do you still give certificate for climbing to the top? How many stairs?
nplhkeeper
milwaukee
Yes, Pat, we certainly do still hand certificates out for climbing. They were initially intended for kids, but we realized that many adults wanted them as well; so just ask for yours at the desk! We are currently closed for restoration; plans are to reopen sometime in spring -- please keep checking out web site. There are 84 steps, with the last 13 being an open metal rung ladder leading into the lantern room. A little challenging, but well worth the view!
Cyndy R
Russell, IL1 contribution
I'd like to know the docent touring hours for this weekend - May 9th & 10th; prices for Adults & Children [ages of Children that qualify for the discount as well as senior ages & discounts].
Google notes that your website may be hacked and so I am trying to ascertain the information this way.
Does the park have a playground included and about how much time should we allow for the docent-led tour, picture-taking & to take a 'quality look around the lighthouse inside'?
Cyndy Romano
Roby Ikhsan
Mississauga, Canada80 contributions
North Point Lighthouse is open throughout the year.
Hours
Saturdays and Sundays
1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.
Admission
Under 5: Free
Under 12: $3.00
Age 12+: $5.00 per person
Private Tours on a Weekday
Private tours and education tours by appointment at special rates.
$8 per person, but a minimum of 10 people or $80 minimum per group, whichever is greater.
No playground. 2-3 hours should be OK.
North Point Lighthouse (Milwaukee) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about North Point Lighthouse
- North Point Lighthouse is open:
- Sat - Sun 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- North Point Lighthouse admission prices can vary. Entrance tickets currently cost $8.21, while a popular guided tour starts around $40.00 per person. See all 3 North Point Lighthouse tickets and tours on Tripadvisor
- North Point Lighthouse can be crowded, so we recommend booking e-tickets ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund. See all 3 North Point Lighthouse tickets and tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near North Point Lighthouse:
- (0.35 mi) A MUST SEE!! 1897 HISTORIC VICTORIAN/ FANTASTIC SAFE AREA/ 5 STAR AREA
- (0.38 mi) Beautiful English Mansion, 1/4 mile from Lake and close to Arts & Entertainment
- (2.71 mi) Hilton Garden Inn Milwaukee Downtown
- (2.66 mi) Milwaukee Marriott Downtown
- (2.62 mi) Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel
- Restaurants near North Point Lighthouse:
- (0.20 mi) Bartolotta's Lake Park Bistro
- (0.41 mi) Café Hollander - Downer
- (0.42 mi) Pizza man
- (1.73 mi) Glorioso's Italian Market
- (0.43 mi) BelAir Cantina
North Point Lighthouse Information
Excellent Reviews | 106 |
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Very Good Reviews | 81 |
North Point Lighthouse Photos | 164 |